SSE has big ambitions to be a leading energy company in a low carbon world. Following our commitment to invest £20.5 billion in low carbon projects to 2027, we have significant growth plans and are well on our way to achieving our ambition to build a world that's more sustainable and inclusive for you, your family, the community you live in and for generations to come.

Join us on our journey to net zero and help us power change.

About the Role

At SSEN Transmission, we have a critical role to play in supporting delivery of UK and Scottish Government targets to tackle the climate emergency and secure the country’s future energy independence, as we deliver a network for net zero emissions in the north of Scotland, securing power for future generations.

We're looking to recruit a highly motivated, energetic, passionate and experienced Head of Public Affairs and Policy, responsible for proactively leading a team responsible for managing SSEN Transmission’s political engagement at both Holyrood and Westminster.

As part of the Corporate Affairs Transmission team, you will be responsible for leading SSEN Transmission’s engagement with Government Ministers, Elected Members and Senior Government Officials - and to positively influence policy development and legislative change - working closely with colleagues across the business and the wider industry to help meet business objectives and support the transition to net zero emissions.

Base Location: Aberdeen, Inverness, Glasgow, London or Perth

Salary: £63,000 - £94,400 (depending on skills and experience) + car/car allowance + performance-related bonus + a range of other benefits to support your family, finances and wellbeing.

Working Pattern: Permanent | Full Time | Flexible working options available

Key responsibilities for this role will include:

- Lead a team of Public Affairs and Policy Managers to manage SSEN Transmission’s reputation and relationships with key elected members, researchers, civil servants and other relevant stakeholders.

- Design, execute, monitor and review political engagement programmes to build advocacy for SSEN Transmission’s business priorities.

- Support future growth opportunities through positive policy advocacy, influencing the development of policy positions to support SSEN Transmission business objectives; and horizon scan to advise on emerging policy thinking and trends to identify upcoming risks and opportunities.

- Lead responses to Government consultations, Parliamentary Inquiries, and legislative development, proactively seeking opportunities to positively influence the direction and outcome of policy change with Government officials, elected members and wider stakeholders.

- Proactively build alliances with wider stakeholders, advocating on behalf of SSEN Transmission’s customers and stakeholders, protecting the interests of current and future GB consumers and tackling the climate emergency; working with colleagues to coordinate support for advocacy priorities via communications, public affairs and regulatory functions.

What do I need?

To be considered for this role, we would love you to have:

- Exceptional communications and engagement skills and experience to communicate the positive contribution that SSEN Transmission is making to the social, environmental and economic wellbeing of the country and the regions in which the company is operating.

- First class interpersonal skills enabling you to build and maintain strong working relationships internally and externally whilst clearly explaining complex issues in a simple and compelling way to build credibility and trust with external stakeholders and within the business.

- Demonstrable, extensive experience and a proven track record engaging with senior Government officials, elected representatives, and senior executives with the goal of influencing decision making; with a passion and detailed understanding of local and national politics that could impact/affect SSEN Transmission’s business objectives.

- Open and flexible work style to adapt to changing priorities and a dynamic external environment, with an ability to work in a pressurised environment to tight deadlines and a willingness to commit to and deliver long-term strategic objectives.

- Managerial experience and a background in the energy industry and/or Public Affairs and Policy experience with a comparable business (FTSE 50).

About our Business

Our Corporate Affairs, Regulation & Strategy (CARS) function combines three quite separate but intrinsically linked businesses, with a shared focus on advising, influencing and communicating SSE's strategy and interests with key stakeholders. This involves the interpretation of complex political and regulatory changes, skilled lobbying to inform the future energy ecosystem, and innovative communication techniques to ensure SSE's story is reached by a broad range of audiences including investors, competitors, governments, partners, suppliers, communities, and both current and prospective employees.

At SSEN Transmission, we take immense pride in owning and operating the high-voltage electricity transmission network across the north of Scotland. We transport energy from where it is generated to wherever it is needed, ensuring a safe and reliable electricity supply for the communities we serve. But that's not all – we're committed to upgrading the grid to deliver cleaner, homegrown energy for the future. By developing, building and maintaining a network for net zero, we're creating secure power for generations to come.

What's in it for you?

We offer an excellent package with 34 days annual leave entitlement. Enhanced maternity/paternity leave, discounted healthcare, salary sacrifice car leasing and much more, view our full benefits package on our careers site.

As an equal opportunity employer we encourage diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We encourage applicants from all protected characteristics and commit to providing any reasonable adjustments you need during the application, assessment and upon joining SSE. Search for 'Inclusion & Diversity at SSE' to find out more.

What happens now?

All applications should be made online, and I'll be back in touch after the vacancy closing date to let you know the outcome.

If you would like to discuss any working flexibly requirements or adjustments you may require throughout the recruitment and selection process, please contact Louise on louise.markwick@sse.com / 01738 351671.

Before commencing your role with SSE, you'll need to complete our pre-employment screening process. This will consist of a criminality and credit check.

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